(Premier Doug Ford makes announcement of pandemic pay for front line workers on April 25, 2020. Photo: Ontario Government)
In recognition of the dedication, long hours and increased risk of working to contain the COVID-19 outbreak, the Ontario government is providing frontline staff with a temporary pandemic payment. The federal government also contributed to make the additional wages possible.
In an announcement on April 25, Premier Doug Ford has announced a $4.00 per hour “pandemic pay premium” to be paid to front line workers during COVID-19. The pay increase is in addition to existing hourly wages. This order is effective as of April 24 and will be in place for the next 16 weeks.
Those working over 100 hours per month will also receive lump sum payments of $250 per month for each of the next four months. This means that eligible employees working an average of 40 hours per week would receive $3,560 in additional compensation.
Those eligible to receive this pandemic pay are staff working in long-term care homes, retirement homes, emergency shelters, supportive housing, social services congregate care settings, corrections institutions and youth justice facilities, as well as those providing home and community care and some staff in hospitals. In addition, staff providing frontline clinical services, along with those providing support services, such as cleaning and meal preparation, will be eligible to receive the temporary pandemic payment.
“During these dark days, the Ontario spirit continues to shine through with everyday acts of heroism, courage, and compassion by our frontline workers,” said Premier Ford. “These people put themselves in harm’s way to care for our sick and vulnerable citizens. I am truly grateful, as are the people of Ontario, for their service, and it’s time we give something back to those who sacrifice so much day in and day out.”
The announcement was made by Premier Doug Ford, Peter Bethlenfalvy, President of the Treasury Board, Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, and Dr. Merrilee Fullerton, Minister of Long-Term Care.